The Special Difference With Google’s Latest Panda Update

What is the Panda Update?

The newest Google Panda update started rolling out at the end of September; the Moz Algorithm Change History reported the change on September 23, 2014. This is Google’s 27th Panda Update. Yes, 27th!

Panda was set in place to penalize “thin” or poor website content from ranking well in Google’s Search Result Pages (SERPS) which makes perfect sense, why would users want to land on webpages that offer up duplicated or useless content? When someone searches Google, they want to find the appropriate information they are looking for, they don’t want to have to click through to several websites if the first results don’t offer up the suitable answer.

What does this particular Panda update mean?

The update means that websites who were hit by Panda in the last 26 updates, but went ahead and fixed up their content, may have a chance to climb up to a better ranking in the SERPS.

The negative here is that those who were never previously affected by the Panda algorithm update may be impacted this time around.

What can you do to ensure you don’t get hit by Panda?

1. Ensure you have no duplicate content on your site. Meaning, your content is not copied from a manufacturer website, a competitor’s website or even another page on your website.

2. Ensure you are providing educational content that answers people’s questions. For instance, does your receptionist often get asked the same questions? Why not add the answers to those questions right on your website. For example, “Do you offer a product guarantee?” Or “How long does the installation take?” Even directions from major landmarks in your city are a good idea to implement on your site.

3. Ensure you don’t have any blank, empty web pages. Be careful when posting blogs or accidentally posting blank pages in your Content Management System (CMS). If you are unsure if you have blank pages on your site, an SEO can help you identify this.

4. Avoid taking the short road. Google is always looking to penalize websites who are taking the short road, just to get things done quickly. Do the actual work, and follow Google’s guidelines.

If you have any questions about how to ensure your website is Panda friendly. Leave your questions in the comments section below!